How Is 3D Printing Used in the Cosmetics Industry?

Additive manufacturing and 3D technologies are being applied to virtually every industry in different ways and for different purposes. In recent years, the beauty and cosmetics sector has also been counted among these. The reasons that cosmetic companies are beginning to use 3D printing are many. Prominent among them is the increased customizability of products, even according to a customer’s skin type or physical characteristics through 3D scanning techniques, for example. But that’s not all, large brands in the beauty world have also resorted to additive manufacturing to produce “cruelty free” products and more sustainable, lightweight and optimized packaging. To explore the topic further, we have collected some the most interesting 3D printed cosmetics projects and applications in the beauty industry to shed some light on recent trends.

Beauty Products and 3D Printing

3D Printing at LUSH

The LUSH brand specializes in the manufacture of beauty products such as body creams, soaps and more. With numerous boutiques around the world, it has made a name for itself in the plant-based cosmetics market. A few years ago, LUSH invested in 3D printing, specifically to improve its R&D processes, but also to design molds, tooling and finished products. For example, 3D printing enabled the company to design molds in the shape of koalas to make soap as part of a campaign to support the wildlife victims of the Australian bushfires in 2020. Notably, among the 3D printers owned by LUSH are Formlabs machines.

Photo credits: LUSH Cosmetics

3D Printed Nails by Mani.me

Painting one’s nails can be a time-consuming process, prone to mistakes and messes. Fake nails may not be the right size or feel uncomfortable. That is where company Mani.me steps in to provide a solution in the form of tailor-fitted, custom 3D printable nails. With their revolutionary procedure, Mani.me can create a set of unique nails for each customer based on measurements and data taken from the images their customers send them. Starting with pictures of their hands, the company can generate a 3D model to determine the exact size and shape necessary for each person’s nails. After which, the clients’ choice of design is 3D printed onto a set of nails and delivered. For a fashionable freedom of choice that removes the limitations of standard nail painting, your next nails may be coming to you from a 3D printer!